Tahiti

Tahiti and Moorea, part of the Society Islands of French Polynesia, were first explored by Captains Cook and Bligh, but they were made truly famous by the paintings of the artist, Paul Gauguin, and by the words of author, James A. Michener.

The island was divided into various clans prior to the arrival of Europeans, with each clan being run by a chief (ari'i rahi), nobles (ari'i) and under-chiefs ('lato'ai).

Admiral Du Petit-Thouars arrived from France in the mid-19th century, and won over the Tahitian chiefs who were growing tired of the self-imposed Pomare monarchy. Du Petit-Thouars proposed a treaty, and within its framework Tahiti became recognized as a sovereign state of France, with the Queen (Pomare) being responsible for internal affairs.

In 1946, the whole of French Polynesia, including Tahiti, became an overseas territory, and citizens of the island were given French citizenship, this was changed to an overseas country in 2004.

Over 60% of all residents of French Polynesia live on the island, in and around the capital city of Papeete.

Moorea, with a very similar landscape, is commonly reached by ferry from Tahiti. The author, James A. Michener described Moorea by saying, "It's a monument to the prodical beauty of nature."

For additional info about the islands of French Polynesia, and their most interesting history, go here.

Fast Facts

Name: Tahiti and MooreaA part of the Society Islands of French Polynesia, an overseas territory of France originally claimed in 1843

Flags

French Polynesia is an overseas possession of France.

Its flag depicts a canoe (piroque), sailing under a golden sun. Its crew of five is representing the five islands groups; the Austral, Gambier, Marquesas, Society and Tuamotu chains. Red and white are traditional Polynesian colors. Larger Tahiti flag

Travel Info.

ATTRACTIONS: (a few major) Widely considered to be one of the most beautiful islands in the south Pacific, Tahiti is a breathtaking paradise of rainforests and mountains ringed by infamous black-sand beaches.

While many tourists flock to the island seeking a tranquil wedding or honeymoon spot, there are also plenty of activities to be enjoyed by those seeking an adventure - including various water activities (surfing, scuba diving, fishing) as well as visiting the Tomb of King Pomare the Fifth, hiking to the Les Trois Cascades, and wandering around the shops and restaurants of Le Marche, to name but a few.

Weather

The summer months (November - April) are hot and humid, with many sunny days. The balance of the year is slightly cooler and drier.

Cooling trade winds buffet the islands throughout the year, and the months of June, July, August and October are widely considered to be ideal times to visit.